Incumbent for Alvanley & Manley, Norley, Crowton & Kingsley

Introduction

We are seeking a priest to minister to this vibrant rural benefice of central tradition, located in mid-Cheshire. The benefice includes four parishes with a total population of around 5,000. A supportive ministry team of lay ministers and retired clergy is in place. There are great opportunities in schools ministry, including to three church primaries. A well-appointed vicarage is provided. 

The parish is seeking an incumbent who loves God, loves people, and who is:

• secure in his/her faith with a clear vision and spiritual depth
• passionate about sharing the love of Christ
• able to listen, discern the way forward, and prioritise as appropriate
• appreciative of rural life, with or without previous experience of rural ministry
• approachable, pastorally sensitive, a "people person" comfortable in their own skin and able to relate to others
• committed to encouraging and enabling the congregations in living out their faith in daily life 
• committed to encouraging the flourishing of lay ministry in the parishes
• a good communicator
• sensitive to existing traditions of worship while also confident in leading change
• keen to keep building up community spirit and ecumenical links
• committed to the pastoral care of old, young and all in between
• blessed with leadership skills and confident in delegating
• determined to work with the PCCs to help get the finances back on track

Closing date for applications:              28 September  

Interviews:                                              23 October 

Prospective applicants are welcome to discuss this post with: 
 The Archdeacon of Chester, the Ven Dr Michael Gilbertson 
 Tel: 01928 643441
Email: michael.gilbertson@chester.anglican.org 

The Diocese of Chester will not shortlist candidates unless they can provide an assurance of up-to-date safeguarding training and a valid DBS check for their current post. Candidates are required to submit relevant training certificates with their applications.

In recent years, the benefice has found it difficult to fund a full parish share. In recognition of the missional importance of the post, the diocese and parishes have agreed nonetheless to make a full-time appointment. The parishes are working to an agreed plan to get back to sustaining a full parish share over the next three years. For that reason, the post will in the first instance be designated as a three-year interim role under Section 29 of the Ecclesiastical (Terms of Service) Regulations. After three years, the post is renewable for up to a further three years, and if all goes well, will in due course be made into a permanent post.